Here are some tips for members on avoiding being hacked, viruses, Trojans, malware & spyware…

Protect your computer/email with these STOP. THINK. CONNECT. Tips:

•    When in doubt, throw it out: Links in email, tweets, posts, and online advertising are often the way cybercriminals compromise your computer. If it looks suspicious, even if you know the source, it’s best to delete or, if appropriate, mark it as junk email.

•    Think before you act: Be wary of communications that implores you to act immediately, offers something that sounds too good to be true, or asks for personal information.

•    Secure your accounts: Ask for protection beyond passwords. Many account providers now offer additional ways for you verify who you are before you conduct business on that site.

•    Make passwords long and strong: Combine capital and lowercase letters with numbers and symbols to create a more secure password. (use a service like www.lastpass.com to create secure passwords )

•    Unique account, unique password: Separate passwords for every account helps to thwart cybercriminals (use a service like www.lastpass.com )

•    Install & Keep antivirus software up to date; turn on automatic updates. Good quality Antivirus is free! No excuses!! (Avast or Windows Defender)

•    Keep your computer software up to date; install security updates, software patches etc. Set your computer to receive updates automatically.